Wedding Dress Challenge Blogger Aarti checks in with fellow participants to see how they've been doing on their diet and fitness regimes.

This week, I'm checking in with another Wedding Dress Challenge participant, Elaine Keating-Brown. Elaine is super close to her goal, and she's a nursing mom too. Here's what she had to say about her journey to the finish line.

How are you going about your weight loss? Describe your diet and exercise plan.

I've been counting calories via My Fitness Pal. In terms of exercise, I've mainly been running and swimming so far. I've made a conscious effort to eat healthier and sticking to a set number of calories per day. Since I'm nursing, I need to add an extra 600 calories to my diet.

What's working? What's not working?

The calorie counting and running both seem to be working well. Sometimes it's hard to eat all my calories on a high workout day, though.

What are the major lifestyle changes you have made?

I've made it a priority to fit in exercise, whether it is going to the gym or running outside.

What has been the hardest part of this challenge for you?

Trying to stay away from biscuits and cake.

What do you miss the most?

Mainly biscuits with my cup of tea—my British roots!

Do you have any helpful tips you can share with readers?

This is the first time I have run and wow, what a difference! I would really recommend it. Working out with a friend has also helped a lot. Keeping track of everything I eat on My Fitness Pal has helped me realize what is high in calories and what isn't.

How are you managing? Cheat meals? Any healthy tips? Substitutions for your favorites?

Dark chocolate is my cheat treat for sure. Edamame hummus from Trader Joe's is too die for, and it's actually good for you (in moderation). I also love TJ's "Just a Handful," which is a small pack of nuts and seeds. This healthy snack is very filling, and they come in pre-packaged servings (10 small bags at 200 calories each), so I don't need to worry about portion control. .

Are you feeling different?

Yes, I'm feeling really happy with my success so far.

What are your biggest problem areas?

My baby bulge is still around, so I need to do some toning exercises now.

My legs and bum were getting toned, and the weight started dropping off.

Was it easy? Was it hard?

It was most important to stay disciplined!

What kind of support system did you have?

Stephanie [the nutritionist] has been a great help with food ideas. A good friend of mine is a running coach in charge of the Hells Kitchen running group on Meetup.com, and she has been wonderful help. She came on my first few runs to get me started, and I have gone on some of her "meetups" as well as various training sessions together. My friends and husband have been excellent and constantly tell me how great I look!

Did your family have to make major changes too?

No, not really. My youngest has taken a bottle more instead of nursing so I can go out and run. It's a bit annoying as I have to pump when I get back in, but it's worth it !

Are you feeling healthier and happy about the weight loss or cranky?

Yes, I definitely feel much happier and healthier. I am shocked each time I come back from a run—I get a fabulous runner's high, especially when I have pushed myself to go further.

How much weight have you lost?
I've lost 17 pounds so far.

How far away are you from your goal weight?

I'm eight pounds away from my goal.

Describe your exercise routine.

I go running every other day and swim at least twice a week with a water aerobics session if there's time. I do strength training with my running coach pal once a week. I walk as much as possible every day. This week, I'm going to take advantage of Gold's Gym and plan to do four exercise classes. Two friends are also joining Golds this week, which should be fun!

What have you learned about yourself from this challenge?

That I can actually do this! I've set my mind to it, and it's working so far!

How about you, at-home Wedding Dress Challengers? How are you fitting exercise into into your life to stay on track with your challenge goals? Share how working out has led to great results, and you could be featured in an upcoming issue of REDBOOK.

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